How many cats are too many?

Do you ever wonder "how many cats are too many"? Are you afraid of ending up like an old cat lady? Cat lovers often fantasize about adding a new cat to their home. We all find cute kittens or rescue cats and wish we could help them find a loving environment. There is no exact answer to the question: for some people 2 cats could be too many, in other cases 4 cats are happy sharing a house. Each person should realize what is the best option. You should consider the following points:

• Your living environment: do you own your apartment? do you rent or do you share an apartment? A cat is a life time commitment, you should be able to secure a safe home environment for all your cats for an average of 15-18 years!
  
• How many cats do you already have? Are they social and outgoing? If you have a shy cat who grew up closer to you over the years she won't like to have new kitty friends. Introducing and adjusting the social structure among cats can be difficult and stressful, it could even lead to constant hissing, fighting and litter box issues
  
• A cat costs money! Take into account vet bills, litter and cat food, cat sitting or in-home boarding services when you're away. It all adds up and your bill could get high
  
• Are you in good health? Do you feel you will be able to take care of yourself and your cat companions for a long time? You are their provider, they depend on you.
  
• Will you have time to devote to your cat friends? If your work is very demanding you could have an independent cat waiting for you in your aparment but you should limit the number of cats
  
• Think carefully about the reasons why you would like to have more cats. You need to understand if you're replacing with cats other needs in your life. Cats are living beings and will give you company and endless rewards but one or two cats do just that
  
• How does your family and friends feel about your cats? You want to mantain a social life with your closer friends and relatives, your cats are part of your life but your home should be a welcoming and healthy place for everyone in your life
  
• Be careful and review your lease or coop/condo regulations! Many apartment have strict pet policies. Your building could allow pets (or just cats) and also limit the number of cats per apartment
  

Many of us, who just can't help loving every cat we cross, would like to rescue any lonely kitten or older cat along the way. Sometimes our own homes are not the best alternative. There are so many things you could do to help organizations and shelters. You could play an active role in your community helping find forever homes for abandoned pets. You could also volunteer at the local shelter. Spread the importance of neutering and spaying and the importance of getting a cat as a long term commitment.

A cat is not an article we purchase and return, that can be replaced or thrown out when it gets older (or sick) or when she's in the way of a long vation or a work promotion overseas. Your cat is going to be there for a long time! Having one (or a multicat household) will bring you joy and make you a better person but along comes a big responsibility. Adding new cats to your home should be a mature decision, taking into account your personal situation, the cats who already share your life and your future 15 years.

If you need more information about how to add a new cat to your home we recommend you read Cat Vs. Cat: Keeping Peace When You Have More Than One Cat. You will find lots of tips and advice about how to make a smooth transition.

At Kitty in NY we can help you find a solution for your vacations and holidays. We will take care of your cats when you're away. Our in-home boarding and cat sitting service provide peace of mind to our clients. They know their cats are in good hands. Our regular updates will help you enjoy your vacation or focus on your business without ever worrying about your cat/s. Contact us with more details about the service you need.